SHARJAH: The Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, which concluded today at Expo Centre Sharjah, showcased the exceptional creativity and skill of young Emirati designers. Their latest collections of gold and diamond jewellery, characterised by a blend of global appeal and distinctive designs inspired by Emirati heritage, lit up the Emirates Jewellers’ Pavilion.
This dedicated space is provided by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) to nurture the entrepreneurial ecosystem and small to medium-sised enterprises. The Emirati exhibitors presented a collection of innovative designs on the international stage, including several first-time showcases.
Notably, Emirati designer Shama Al Falasi introduced a diamond painting project alongside a range of gold creations that merged Emirati heritage with contemporary global designs. Among these was the collection, adorned with diamonds and colourful enamel.
This year, the pavilion welcomed over 20 designers, including eight newcomers, marking their dist
inguished debut at the exhibition. It drew a significant number of visitors and aficionados of gold craftsmanship, showcasing hundreds of items ranging from jewellery pieces crafted with diamonds and gold, catering to diverse tastes.
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of Expo Centre Sharjah, highlighted that the platform witnessed a significant increase in the number of Emirati entrepreneurs and talented individuals on a yearly basis. With approximately 420 designers now associated with the platform, its significance is underscored by offering them a robust stage to showcase their talents and creativity. It also serves as a vital forum for learning from major industry exhibitors, facilitating the exchange of experiences and skill enhancement.
Mona Al Suwaidi, Director of the Executive Office of the SCCI’s Chairman, overseeing the ‘Emirates Jewellers’ Pavilion, highlighted that the Pavilion has seen a 20 percent increase in its male designer partic
ipation. This increase not only reinforces the initiative’s reputation but also emphasises its crucial role in providing designers with a foothold in the goldsmithing and jewellery-making markets, where they can gain valuable experience and bolster their marketing skills.
Al Suwaidi also added that the pavilion hosted several workshops during the exhibition, covering various topics such as gemstone carving techniques, gold quality classification, and its processing. Additionally, it facilitated numerous bilateral discussions between Emirati designers and Italian company representatives, fostering a valuable exchange of knowledge and ideas.
Meanwhile, designer Shamma Al Falasi said that her diamond painting project, unveiled at the exhibition, was inspired by a trip organised by the Sharjah Chamber for Emirati designers to Italy. The concept came to her while visiting the Florence Museum and interacting with Italian designers skilled in diamond craftsmanship. The project, which involves creating artwork with
diamond grains, features an intricate interior design that requires specific lighting to be fully appreciated.
Source: Emirates News Agency
